In May 2017, after more than a year of advocacy efforts on this issue, the Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Association (FOCA) provided input into a proposed revision to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry's Public Lands Act, to enable certain occupations of public land without the need for a permit, lease, or license of occupation.

FOCA is pleased to be able to announce that, effective June 1st, 2017, Ontario Regulation O.Reg.161/17 came into effect. The important changes now mean that a person can occupy public lands without a permit from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry - subject to some conditions, and only if allowed by municipal bylaw or Federal statute. This applies to:

docks, boat lifts, boat ramps, and marine railways

swim rafts

single-storey boathouses

break walls and related backfill

recreational boat caches which includes canoes, kayaks and motor boats

ramps and jumps and slalom courses

bridges, culverts and causeways

recreational camping units (21 days)

ice fishing huts

Some clarification on regulated structures was also provided, for example, a “dock” includes any associated shade structures affixed to the dock such as a gazebo or pergola.

Link to the full decision, and get further information at www.FOCA.on.ca